March 20th - Studland to Lulworth - 8.7 miles

Having initially (and naively) intended to walk to the chain ferry from Poole, I'd by now thought twice about it and had sussed out that the bus station was close to the hotel, that the No.60 went all the way down the Sandbacks peninsula and would deliver me to the ferry.

I arrived at the ferry terminal in good time to appreciate the technology

and watch the approaching ferry.

That's when  ..... Satan stepped forward and I realised that the same bus-stop served the No.50 which could take me all the way from the ferry to Studland. 

Get behind me Satan!!!!

So, I eagerly joined a group of other walkers already on the No.50 and onto the ferry and in to the driving rain we went - all of us on the top deck, complete with heavy condensation on the windows. 

The only clear view was out of the back window - so I appreciated the view as we pulled away from the slip.

It was becoming obvious that visibility was going to be a problem today so instead of walking around Old Harry's Rocks in nil visibility, I made the easy decision and stayed on the bus. 

As we passed Studland, the bus stop was barely visible let alone the Obelisk at 150m on Ballard Down. 

Fate had decided,  I'd start today's walk at Swanage
- which despite it's reputation, I think is OK.

As I left the town, Old Harry was just about visible.

and further along, there were signs warning that the path out to Peveril Point was going to be slippery. 

And it was!

After skating along the 200 yards to the point, I headed past the Coastguard Station

 up hill on to the downs before getting to the Victorian Pleasure Gardens at Durlston Castle.

where there was a really good geology / archaeology exhibition and a 10 minute film - just about enough geology for me!

As I set off, the sea-mist was coming in again 

At Tilly Whim caves, the local sea cliff rescue team 

were carrying out an exercise to renew their 2 yearly accreditation. I spoke to one of the team who'd just absailed down through the blow-hole to assess the condition of the 'casualty'. I could have waited and watched the recovery but I had a bit of a walk ahead!

The lighthouse at Anvil Point.

The path was muddy and slippery all along the way

particularly if the cattle had been there before.

..which all made for slow and muddy progress.

Eventaully Worth Matravers appeared through the drizzle

and the welcoming sight of the Square and Compass

before getting to my 'Shepherd's hut'

where at least I managed to light the fire to try to dry out my gear.

Later, to the pub for a few pints of HBA and Butcombe's ESB.

..over which I met Pete and Liz from Northampton.

Before she retired, Liz was Chief Wine Buyer for Asda. Now, there's a job.....!!!

Tonight, she was driving. Shame.